If you’re looking for a statement plant that brings a slice of the jungle indoors, look no further than the philodendron selloum. This tropical giant leaf plant is a favorite for its dramatic, deeply lobed foliage and relatively easy-going nature.
It’s a classic houseplant that can adapt to many home environments. With the right care, it grows into a impressive, bushy specimen. Let’s get into everything you need to know to keep yours thriving.
Philodendron Selloum – Tropical Giant Leaf Plant
Often called the Tree Philodendron or Split-Leaf Philodendron, this plant is a true standout. Its leaves can grow over a foot long, creating a lush, architectural look. It’s not a fast grower, but its impact is immediate.
Despite it’s size, it’s not overly demanding. It offers a big reward for a moderate amount of effort. This makes it perfect for both new and experienced plant owners.
What Exactly is a Philodendron Selloum?
Botanically, it’s known as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, though you’ll see it labeled as Philodendron selloum everywhere. It’s native to the rainforests of South America. There, it grows as a terrestrial plant on the forest floor.
Indoors, it won’t reach its full outdoor potential of 10-15 feet, but it can easily hit 5-8 feet tall and wide. The key feature are the leaves. They are glossy, green, and deeply cut with wavy edges.
It’s important to note it’s not the same as a Monstera deliciosa, though they look similar. The Selloum’s leaves are more ruffled and it grows from a central trunk-like stem.
Light Requirements for Healthy Growth
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight it would get under the rainforest canopy. A spot near an east or north-facing window is ideal.
It can tolerate medium light levels, but growth will be slower. Avoid direct, harsh afternoon sun. This can scorch those beautiful large leaves, causing brown patches.
- Best: Bright, filtered light from a curtain-covered window.
- Okay: A few feet back from a sunny window.
- Not Good: Deep shade or direct hot sun.
How to Water Your Selloum Correctly
Watering is where most people go wrong. This plant likes its soil to partially dry out between waterings. Overwatering is the quickest way to cause problems like root rot.
Stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, wait a few more days. Your watering schedule will change with the seasons.
- Check soil moisture weekly with your finger.
- Water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes.
- Empty the saucer under the pot after 15 minutes so the roots aren’t sitting in water.
- In winter, reduce watering frequency as growth slows.
Choosing the Perfect Soil Mix
A well-draining, airy potting mix is non-negotiable. It needs to hold some moisture but never become soggy. A standard houseplant soil is a good base, but you should amend it.
Here’s a simple recipe you can mix at home:
- 2 parts high-quality potting soil
- 1 part perlite or pumice
- 1 part orchid bark or coconut coir
This combination ensures good drainage and aeration around the roots. It mimics the rich, loose leaf litter of the forest floor.
Humidity and Temperature Needs
As a tropical plant, it appreciates higher humidity. Average home humidity (around 40%) is often acceptable, but it will be happiest with more. Low humidity can lead to brown leaf tips.
Ideal temperatures are between 65°F and 85°F (18°C – 29°C). Protect it from cold drafts, air conditioners, and heating vents. Sudden temperature drops can shock the plant.
To boost humidity:
- Group it with other plants.
- Use a pebble tray filled with water placed under the pot.
- Run a humidifier nearby, especially in dry winter months.
- Misting can help, but it’s a temporary solution and shouldn’t be relied upon alone.
Fertilizing for Lush, Giant Leaves
Feed your philodendron during its active growing season (spring and summer). This supports the development of those large, impressive leaves. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer works well.
Dilute it to half the strength recommended on the bottle. Apply it every 4-6 weeks. There’s no need to fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant is resting.
An occasional treat is to use a fertilizer with a slightly higher nitrogen content. Nitrogen promotes green, leafy growth. Just be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the roots.
Pruning and Shaping Your Plant
Pruning helps maintain a attractive shape and size. It also encourages bushier growth. You’ll mainly be removing old or damaged leaves.
Always use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors. Cut the leaf stem near the main trunk. Don’t be afraid to remove yellowing leaves at the bottom—this is a normal part of growth.
- Identify leaves that are yellow, brown, or heavily damaged.
- Follow the leaf stem back to the main trunk or soil line.
- Make a clean cut as close to the base as possible without damaging the trunk.
- You can also remove any aerial roots that are getting too long or messy by trimming them back.
How and When to Repot
Philodendron selloum likes to be slightly root-bound. You only need to repot every 2-3 years. Signs it needs a new home include roots growing out the drainage holes or slowed growth despite good care.
Choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter. A pot that’s too big holds excess soil and water, risking root rot. Ensure the new pot has excellent drainage holes.
Spring is the best time to repot. Gently loosen the root ball and place it in the new pot with fresh soil. Water it well and place it back in its usual spot.
Common Problems and Easy Solutions
Even the best gardeners encounter issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems with your philodendron.
Yellowing Leaves
This is the most common issue. The cause is usually overwatering. Check your soil moisture and adjust your schedule. Yellow leaves can also indicate a need for fertilizer or, less commonly, too much direct sun.
If only the oldest, bottom leaves are yellowing occasionally, it’s probably just natural aging. Simply prune them off.
Brown Leaf Tips or Edges
Brown tips are often a sign of low humidity. They can also be caused by underwatering, or a buildup of salts and minerals from tap water or fertilizer.
- Increase humidity around the plant.
- Ensure you’re watering thoroughly when you do water.
- Try using distilled, rainwater, or filtered water, or flush the soil every few months by running water through it for several minutes.
Pests to Watch For
Thankfully, this plant is fairly pest-resistant. But it can sometimes attract common houseplant bugs.
- Spider Mites: Look for fine webbing and stippling on leaves. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: Appear as small, white, cottony masses. Dab them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Scale: Hard, brown bumps on stems and leaves. Scrape them off or use horticultural oil.
Regularly wiping the large leaves with a damp cloth keeps them dust-free and helps you spot pests early.
Propagating Your Philodendron Selloum
Want to make new plants from your existing one? Propagation is usually done by division or stem cuttings. The easiest method is division during repotting.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for division:
- Remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil.
- Look for natural divisions in the root ball—separate stems with there own root systems.
- Using your hands or a clean knife, carefully separate the sections.
- Pot each new division into its own container with fresh soil.
- Water them and provide normal care. They may wilt slightly at first but will recover.
Is the Philodendron Selloum Pet Safe?
This is a critical question for pet owners. No, the philodendron selloum is toxic to cats and dogs. It contains calcium oxalate crystals.
If ingested, it can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant well out of reach of curious pets. Consider a different plant if you have a pet that likes to chew on leaves.
FAQ About Philodendron Selloum
How fast does a split leaf philodendron grow?
Indoors, with good care, you can expect a moderate growth rate of a few new leaves each growing season. It may put on several inches in height and width per year.
Why are my philodendron selloum leaves drooping?
Drooping leaves typically signal underwatering. Check the soil. If it’s bone dry, give it a thorough drink. If the soil is wet, drooping could indicate overwatering and root rot.
Can this giant leaf plant live outside?
Yes, but only in warm climates (USDA zones 9-11) or during summer in temperate zones. It must be in a shady, sheltered spot. Never put it in direct, full sun outdoors. Always acclimate it gradually to outside conditions.
How do I make my selloum more bushy?
Pruning can encourage bushier growth. When you cut back a stem, it often stimulates new growth from nodes lower down. Also, ensure it gets enough light; a plant in low light can become leggy as it stretches for the sun.
What’s the difference between this and a Hope Philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum)?
This is a common point of confusion. They are extremely closely related and the care is identical. The ‘Hope’ is often considered a more compact, smaller cultivar of the same species. The names are frequently used interchangeably in the nursery trade.
Long-Term Care and Final Tips
As your philodendron selloum matures, it will develop a thick, woody trunk. This is normal and adds to its tree-like appearance. Support the plant by occasionally rotating the pot so it grows evenly towards the light.
Remember, consistency is key. Sudden changes in location, temperature, or care can stress the plant. Observe it regularly—its leaves will tell you what it needs.
With it’s dramatic foliage and resilient character, the philodendron selloum truly earns it’s place as a beloved tropical giant. A little attention to its basic needs for light, water, and humidity will ensure it remains a stunning part of your home for many years to come.